Architectural precast concrete wall panels are widely used because they are economical and can be erected quickly while offering design flexibility through countless finish options and in a variety of applications from insulated panels to veneer systems. An often overlooked advantage of precast construction is the ability to achieve high levels of thermal performance, weather- and air-tightness. As with other construction types, adding architectural interest with design elements such as canopies, glazed projections, and overhangs also presents detailing challenges. This presentation will focus on economically addressing these challenging conditions to complete the high-performance building envelope.

Learning Objectives:

1.  Describe the variety of ways architectural precast panels can contribute to achieving a high-performance building envelope.
2.  Identify interfaces where detailing challenges commonly occur when working with precast and review details that respond to these conditions.
3. Compare air barrier detailing for architectural precast and cast-stone veneer systems versus insulated structural precast panel systems.
4. Address common concerns and pitfalls with precast concrete to maximize the aesthetic impact and quality of installation.

Chris Bubser, AIA, LEED-AP, BD+C

Chris Bubser has been involved in the design and construction of a variety of commercial and residential buildings around the midwest as a Builder, Architect, Virtual Design and Construction Coordinator, and Quality Manager. Chris has worked in LHB’s K12 Education Studio since 2019 as a Senior Technical Architect. He has been working with architectural and structural precast concrete since 2007 in a variety of applications, including two recent major, multi-phase school addition and renovation projects that used precast extensively. He has facilitated robust enclosure coordination processes on several high-profile projects where he guided the team toward simplifying and improving the performance of challenging details. Chris has also served on the Board of the Building Enclosure Council of Minnesota from 2014 to 2022, including two years as Chair.